Federal Money Helping 4 Oklahoma Rural Communities

August 6, 2009 -- The Oklahoman reports a recent infusion of federal money totaling nearly $900,000 will be used to jump-start economic development in four rural Oklahoma communities and create or save jobs.

Oklahoma was included in a nationwide $15.3 million grant windfall for 145 recipients through the federal Recovery Act, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The department’s Rural Business Enterprise Program funds education and training, community development and technical assistance for towns and development agencies.

The Oklahoman reports those receiving federal money include:

• A $400,000 grant to the Johnston County Industrial Authority which will go toward construction of a 6,000-square-foot building in an industrial park just west of Tishomingo. The building will occupy one of eight underdeveloped sites in the park, and when construction is completed will house a subsidiary of a high-tech machine shop, TapeMatics, already operating there. The new metal fabrications company is expected to add 15 jobs in the next three years.
• In Antlers almost $100,000 will be used to expand the home base of Mays Home Health Care and keep the growing company from moving elsewhere. The project will add about 2,500 square feet to the company’s headquarters. 
• Fort Towson is planning to turn its $300,000 grant into a new building on land owned by the Fort Towson Industrial Authority.
• The Minco Community Foundation Inc. will receive an $87,000 grant.